Pain is an agonizing symptom that can attack virtually any part of the body. Pain relief supplements include herbs, vitamins and other over-the-counter products with analgesic effects. While not a cure for pain conditions, supplements may provide temporary relief when used as part of an overall pain management plan. Understanding the benefits and risks of pain relief supplements allows consumers to make informed decisions and choose the best supplement for their condition.
Types
Many herbs and supplements are marketed to relieve pain. Some are topical, while others are meant to be taken orally for systemic effects. Examples of topical pain supplements include aloe vera, cayenne pepper and clove oil.
Willow bark and ginger are popular systemic supplements used to treat inflammatory pain, while valerian root is sometimes taken orally to calm the pain of muscle spasms.
Pharmacology
Inflammation plays a key role in many types of pain. According to the National Institutes of Health, ginger relieves pain by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes that produce inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. It also prevents the synthesis of 5-LOX, giving it an advantage over some anti-inflammatory drugs. White willow bark contains salicylin---the medicinal compound in aspirin---and works in a similar manner.
Applied topically, cayenne pepper acts as a counter-irritant, causing localized irritation that distracts the brain from the underlying source of pain. Clove oil is useful as a topical anesthetic due to its numbing effects, while aloe is often used to soothe and heal burns, cuts and skin abrasions.
Side Effects
All pain relief supplements can cause unwanted side effects. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that cayenne pepper may cause irritation, redness and itching at the application site. Contact with eyes can cause severe irritation and may be avoided by washing hands thoroughly after application.
Valerian root---which is sometimes taken for muscle pain and tension---can cause drowsiness, dizziness and nausea, especially when combined with other CNS depressants like alcohol. Both ginger and willow bark have the potential to thin the blood and should be used with caution in people with blood clotting disorders.
Safety Precautions
Using pain relief supplements responsibly can reduce the risk of serious adverse effects. Read all dosing instructions carefully and start with the lowest effective dose to gauge effects. Ask your doctor before trying a new pain relief supplement, especially if you take medications or suffer from chronic health conditions like liver disease or diabetes.
Because nutritional supplements aren't closely regulated by the FDA, they may be more likely to contain impurities or unknown adulterants. To reduce these risks, only buy products that bear the U.S. Pharmacopeia seal of approval.
Considerations
Pain relief supplements may not be right for everyone. To ensure effectiveness and safety, ask your doctor before taking pain relief supplements and report side effects promptly.
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